Heated exchanges mark the EFR/EenVandaag Election Debate in Rotterdam

A chaotic and confrontational night

Moderated by EenVandaag host Suzanne Bosman, the debate quickly descended into heated confrontation. Personal attacks and sharp accusations dominated the evening as the six party leaders sparred over issues ranging from asylum policy and national identity to defense spending and social welfare. leader Henri Bontenbal pleaded for calm toward the end of the broadcast, exclaiming, ‘Can politicians please just calm down?’, but his call was largely ignored amid the crossfire. D66 leader Rob Jetten accused Geert Wilders of damaging the Dutch identity with ‘20 years of negativity and hateful politics,’ to which the PVV leader retorted, calling Jetten’s remarks ‘a beautifully rehearsed story.’ VVD’s Yeşilgöz targeted Jetten’s ‘smooth talk,’ accusing him of avoiding firm action on asylum. Timmermans of GroenLinks-PvdA, in turn, criticised Jetten for having an ‘accountant mentality’ over delayed defense funding. Wilders’ proposal to cut VAT to 0 percent, financed by ending development cooperation, drew loud jeers from the student audience after he remarked, ‘Then they may have a little more hunger in Africa, but not here.’ The PVV leader exited swiftly after the debate.

Students at the heart of the debate

Unique to the EFR/EenVandaag format, the audience consisted entirely of students, reflecting the debate’s emphasis on youth engagement. Students also featured in short video segments introducing the topics and framing the questions from their perspective.

Looking ahead

With polling stations set to open within 24 hours, the debate was one of the final opportunities for party leaders to sway undecided voters. The last debate before the election will air on NOS Tuesday evening, featuring leaders of nine major parties following an opening round with smaller ones.